Fa'asaleleaga is a district of Samoa situated on the eastern side of Savai'i island. It has a population of 12,949 (2001 Census). The traditional capital is Safotulafai where district chiefs and orators meet at Fuifatu malae. Safotulafai was the main base of the 'Mau a Pule' resistance movement against colonial rule, which grew into the national Mau movement and eventually Samoa's political independence in 1962. Safotulafai also has close traditional links with Saleaula, the main village of the Gaga'emauga district.