Lawyers defending two of the key organizers of the truck convoy are expected to present their case on Monday to prevent nine Ottawa residents and business representatives from testifying.

Tamara Lich and Chris Barber are on trial for criminal charges related to their roles in the protest that closed downtown Ottawa streets for weeks last year when dozens of people demonstrated against COVID-19 health measures.

In this second week of their trial, the court plans to call five Ottawa residents as witnesses in the case, including Zexi Lee, who filed a class-action lawsuit against the organizers on behalf of those living and working in the core of the federal capital.

Additionally, this includes a women's clothing store owner, as well as staff from the National Arts Centre and the Fairmont Château Laurier hotel and a local public transit operator.

For his part, Ms. Lich's lawyer, Lawrence Greenspan, said he will argue on Monday afternoon that these witnesses should not be allowed to testify.

Ms. Lich and Mr. Barber have already submitted signed statements to the court, admitting that the protest disrupted public transportation and the lawful use and enjoyment of property and businesses.