BEIJING, July 31  -- All are equal before the law, warns a commentary due to be published on Friday in Communist Party of China (CPC) newspaper the People's Daily, citing the case of former senior Chinese leader Zhou Yongkang.

The probe of Zhou is a clear illustration that the law will brook no challenges, according to the article.

The article calls on Party members to respect the law and Party discipline and always be vigilant to resist violations.

"Corrupted officials who have been investigated and punished so far have one thing in common: they have let their greed prevail over rational minds and their thirst for power has overwhelmed their respect for the law and discipline," the article says.

It stresses that one of the CPC's most important credentials is its strict organization and discipline. "Disciplinary codes are for all Party members, from grassroots members to top officials, and senior officials and cadres should set examples and take the lead to toe the line."

Officials should also strictly supervise their relatives and other people close to them, the article says.