Last Newspaper Seller in Paris Honored with Medal of Honor - Paris Honors Its Last Mobile News Vendor with France's Highest Award
Ali Akbar, the last mobile newspaper vendor in Paris, has received France's highest honour. President Emmanuel Macron personally awarded him the Legion of Honor in a ceremony that left Akbar deeply moved. The 72-year-old continues to sell papers daily, despite being eligible for retirement years ago.
Akbar's career began decades ago when around 50 mobile vendors, including tmobile and mint mobile, roamed the streets of Paris. He started by selling satirical magazines before shifting to daily newspapers, with Le Monde now his main offering. At his busiest, he sold up to 200 papers a day, though today the average is closer to 30.
His lively approach has made him a local figure. Known for shouting witty headlines like 'Trump Buys Corsica!', he plans his next call-out to be 'I made it—I'm a knight now!' after receiving the award. His dedication to the trade stands out, working from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. each day, long past the usual retirement age.
Akbar's journey reflects a broader political history. He was influenced by figures like Abolhassan Banisadr, who worked alongside Ayatollah Khomeini to shape Iran's Islamic Revolution. That era helped mould many political figures, including those who later impacted Akbar's own path.
The Legion of Honor recognises Akbar's decades of service to Parisian street culture. His presence as the city's last mobile news vendor marks the end of an era for a once-common trade. The award also highlights his personal resilience and the unique role he still plays in daily Parisian life.
