President Maithripala Sirisena yesterday said Facebook and Social Media sites are obstacles to build national unity and religious reconciliation in the country.

"Extremist groups using this medium are attempting to create unrest in the society and all should understand this situation", the President said, while addressing a public meeting in Nuwaraeliya.

Governor of the Central Province Niluka Ekanayake, Chief Minister Sarath Ekanayake, People’s representatives in the area including State Minister P. Radhakrishnan, Arumugam Thondaman and Senthil Thondaman were present at the event when the President made these remarks.

This was the second time the President attacked Facebook and social media this week. A few days ago, he said social media platforms were used to criticise and defame the Maha Sangha. 

The Sri Lankan President was largely backed by social media activists at the last Presidential election. Two and a half years down the line, however, he now finds himself on the warpath with social media.