Another feather in Umar Cheema's cap

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 11 June 2013

Umar Cheema has been awarded the 2013 Knight International Journalism Award for his impactful investigative work. The award recognizes his bravery in the face of adversity in Pakistan's challenging media landscape.

Summary

ISLAMABAD: Investigative journalist Umar Cheema has won the 2013 Knight International Journalism Award recognizing excellent reporting that makes a difference in the lives of people.

According to a post on the ICFJ website announcing the awards, Cheema has set a new standard for courage and quality journalism in a country where reporters are routinely attacked and murdered.

Cheema works for The News in Islamabad and was beaten black and blue in 2010 for writing stories critical of the government. He however, showed great courage and has continued to produce hard-hitting investigative stories since.

Another journalist winning the award this year is Roman Anin of Russia’s daily Novaya Gazeta.

The two journalists will be honored at the ICFJ’s Awards Dinner in Washington D.C. on November 7.

A prestigious panel of judges selected Cheema and Anin for the award.

Dr. Maleeha Lodhi, a former editor of The News greeted Cheema on winning the award. She tweeted: “Great honor for our country. Congratulations for 2013 Knight International Journalism Award. You make us proud.”

Cheema has won several awards previously, among them the International Press Freedom Award.

KEY POINTS:

• Umar Cheema won the 2013 Knight International Journalism Award.
• He works for The News in Islamabad and has faced threats for his reporting.
• Cheema's investigation has significantly impacted society in Pakistan.
• He was previously attacked in 2010 due to his critical reporting.
• The award ceremony will take place in Washington D.C. on November 7.