Egypt's government spokesman says the prime minister has fired the justice minister, two days after he said on TV he would even imprison the Prophet Muhammad if he committed a crime.

Cabinet spokesman Hossam Qawish tells The Associated Press Sunday that Ahmed el-Zind was "released from his position," without providing further details.

El-Zind said Friday in a television interview that he would put anyone who violates the law in prison, "even if he is the prophet, peace and blessing be upon him."

El-Zind quickly followed by saying "I ask God for forgiveness" for making the comment.

But that did not prevent a backlash by faithful Muslims as well as criticism on social media.