Choosing a new education minister is the sole prerogative of Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, said Bersatu.

Its Information chief Radzi Jidin said according to Article 43(2)(b) of the Federal Constitution, ministers are appointed by the Agong on the prime minister's advice.

"This also means there is no need for the prime minister to discuss the appointment of a minister in any specific meeting unless he is of that view," said Radzi. 

"In the context of appointing the new education minister, whose incumbent was from Bersatu, there is no need for Harapan to meet. The successor should rightfully be from Bersatu."

Radzi said everyone must respect Mahathir's prerogative in the matter.

The education minister portfolio fell vacant after Maszlee Malik resigned on Thursday, reportedly on Mahathir's orders.

The resignation came amid speculation that there may be a wider cabinet reshuffle.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng, when commenting about a reshuffle, said while he had his opinions, it should be discussed in Harapan.