Iraq's draft child marriage law seen as political stunt - and sign of times

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* Chances of bill becoming law are slim * Secular and women's groups say rights being eroded * Some in Iraq want an Iranian-style theocracy By Raheem Salman BAGHDAD, April 17 (Reuters) - Proposals that would legalise the marriage of nine-year-old Iraqi girls are unlikely to become law, but indicate the growing role of religion in a country some fear is going down the path of neighbouring theocracy Iran. Based on Shi'ite Islamic jurisprudence, the Ja'afari Law's advocates say it would bring regulation of personal status - comprising family law, wills and inheritance - into line with sharia religious law. Iraq's own clerical establishment does **t back the bill, making its chance of success very slim. Critics say the draft is all about short-term political advantage, as Shi'ite Islamist parties compete with each other for votes in the run-up to April 30 elections in a highly-charged sectarian atmosphere.

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