Zuma drink spiller treated like a murderer: report

A Gauteng man found guilty of assault after spilling a drink on President Jacob Zuma said he is being treated like a murderer.

"...It was an accident. I understand the seriousness of the matter - if it were true - but I feel like I am being treated like a murderer," Darryl Peense told the Saturday Star.

The incident took place at last year's Durban July event.

"It has been a year of drama. I am miserable... I am not my normal self, I haven't been for a long time," the racehorse owner said.

Peense was convicted on Wednesday, and the case postponed to September 7 for sentencing.

"We will do whatever we can on the day [of sentencing]... I am not sure if we will appeal if they sentence me harshly.

"I have already spent over R100,000 in legal fees. I would have to raise funds for an appeal," he said.

"All I pray for now is no jail time."

During the trial, Peense denied deliberately spilling his drink on Zuma, claiming he was pushed from behind by people trying to get a better view.